Twenty-five years after its return to the motherland, Macao is charting bold new paths under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework. Supported by the central government’s 14th Five-Year Plan, this “land of lotus” is now deepening ties with the Chinese mainland through upgraded infrastructure, streamlined policies and cross-border innovation.
Thanks to the phased relocation of the Cotai Frontier Post to Hengqin and a 24-hour clearance service, the “cooperative inspection for one-check release” model has slashed border processing from 30 minutes to just one. Residents can now truly live in Macao and work in Hengqin, turning the Greater Bay Area’s one-hour living circle from ambition into reality.
On the innovation front, Macao platforms are teaming up with international resources and Hengqin’s space to fuel breakthroughs in microelectronics and biomedicine. Joint research labs and pilot projects showcase how “research in Macao, transformation in Hengqin” is accelerating tech transfer and spurring economic diversification—especially in free trade and traditional Chinese medicine.
Beyond hardware and research, Macao has strengthened its legal framework under the Basic Law to safeguard national security and foster social cohesion. By weaving patriotism into community networks, education and livelihood programs, the region is cultivating a united identity that drives participation in the Belt and Road Initiative and expands ties with Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking partners.
Standing at a new historical starting point, Macao is aligning more closely with national strategies like the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area plan. With an inclusive spirit and institutional strengths, this city where East meets West is ready to contribute uniquely to national rejuvenation—writing a vibrant chapter in China’s journey and aspiring to even greater global impact.
Reference(s):
Macao integrates into national development to write a new chapter
cgtn.com
